According to the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans), motorists are required to stop and put on chains when highway signs indicate chains are required. In California, you can be cited by the California Highway Patrol if you proceed up a “chain-required” road without tire chains. Three levels of chain requirements include:
- Requirement 1: chains are required to be on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks (trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight). Vehicles with snow tires must have chains. All vehicles towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle. Trailers with brakes must have chains on at least one axle.
- Requirement 2: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels.
- Requirement 3: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles without exception.
Tire Chain Information for New Drivers
In California, motorists will usually have about a mile between “Chains Required signs and the checkpoint to install their chains. Drivers should always be on the lookout for these warnings as the roads can become dangerous before and after inclement weather hits. The following information may help new and experienced drivers when snow hit the California roads:
- Install checkpoints can change rapidly from place to place due to changing weather and road conditions.
- When driving with chains, the speed limit is set at 25 to 30 MPH
- Do not stop traffic to install tire chains. Wait until you are completely pulled off the road to begin putting on chains.
- If you use the “chain installer” service, remember to get a receipt and jot the installer’s badge number on it. Chain installers are independent employees not associated with the California Department of Transportation. Having the badge number may help to clear up misunderstandings later.
- Be sure to drive beyond the “End of Chain Control” signs before pulling to a safe area off the road to remove your chains.
- The California Department of Transportation does not sell or recommend specific tire chain brands. Your best option is to check with your vehicle manufacturer for the best tire chains and traction devices for your vehicle.
Where are Chains Required in California?
When most people picture California, the last thing that comes to mind are snow-capped mountains, but the Golden State does receive its fair share of snow. According to the California Snow Report, the Golden State receives around 224 inches of snowfall per year. The areas where snowfall is most prevalent typically require tire chains. So, what parts of California require tire chains during the winter months
Chains are most often required in the higher mountain passes of northern California. This includes:
- Interstate 5 north of Redding, CA
- Interstate 80 over Donner Pass, which sits between Sacramento and Reno
- US HWY 50 over Echo Summit between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento
Although Southern California mostly consists of a desert climate, snowfall does occur in certain parts. Chains are most often required in the following areas:
- State Route 58 near Tehachapi between Bakersfield and Mojave
- Interstate 15 over Cajon Pass between Victorville and San Bernardino
- Interstate 5 over Tejon Pass between Los Angeles and Bakersfield
FAQ
Q: Are “all-weather” or “all-terrain” tires the same as “snow” tires?
A: They might be, depending on the designation of “Mud & Snow” (M-S, M+S). If a tire does not have a designation, then it is not a snow tire.
Q: Are cable chains permitted?
A: Typically, yes. Cable chains are allowed for passenger cars and light trucks for nearly all conditions. However, they are not permitted for “big-rigs” and may also not be permitted if Caltrans specifies for particularly harsh conditions.
Q: What are the dates for studded snow tires?
A: Studded snow tires are permitted in California from November 1st – April 30th. Please note that studded tires may not be used in lieu of chains when chains are required.
Contact a Vehicle Accident Lawyer in California
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a tire chain safety violation, the personal injury attorneys at Maison Law can help you get the compensation you need. Our team is here to assist you with expert representation and advocate on your behal every step of the way. Accidents in areas where tire chains are required can be catastrophic if Safety Laws are not being followed properly. For trusted legal counsel in this matter, contact Maison Law today for a free consultation and case evaluation. No upfront money is required and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
